block heater?

[roxynoodle]

Is anyone using any type of block or radiator hose heater on their Yanmars? I'm not certain but my tractor does appear to have at least one freeze plug. A radiator hose heater may not fit on it. I have considered a magnetic heater for the oil pan but I'm not sure it would be effective when temps get to 10 or below? Or, would the best option be to use a high powered space heater and cover the tractor with something like a fire resistant blanket to help it get started in really cold temps? Or should I just say oh well, it's too cold, better not use the tractor? I haven't figured out yet just how cold it has to get for it not to start. Maybe it's just fine the way it is and I don't need a heater of any kind

I'm interested in hearing any of your opinions or what you do to aid cold weather starting. So far the tractor has started on the first try every time. I put in a cold weather diesel additive and all fluids and filters were changed this summer and are in good condition. I did put in 15w40 diesel oil. Should I change that to a lighter grade for winter?

 

[Egon]

If heat is needed only for infrequent use a tarp and an electric 700 watt +/- heater with fan will do wonders.

 

[DrewYM226D]

Rox, I have an engine block heater and a transmission oil heater (both factory options on the YM226D). I used them last winter with much success here in SW PA. I did not have them plugged in today so I used the method as I described in the Thermostart thread. My manual does suggest to allow the hydraulic system to warm-up 5-10 minutes before moving the tractor (I have Power Shift) once started. It also states that the engine may take up to eight hours to heat up using the block heater in extremely cold temperatures.

 

[lens12]

I install either block heaters or a heater in the lower radiator hose.. It depends on the model. Some models don't have a freeze plug that a heater can be installed in. If you are going to be starting the tractor in the cold very much, they are well worth it. The tractor will start like it is summer & that is a lot easier on the engine & electrical system. All of my farm tractors have water heaters for cold weather.

 

[greatrandini]

There are old threads on this. I use an oil filled elec heater under the tractor and then I cover the engine area with cheap tarp. It always fires up. I plan to install a radiator hose type heater some time. I park my tractor in the hay barn so I have to use the safe heat oil filled elec heater type of heater. If I had to leave it outside it would be much better with a radiator hose type heater......